Area briefs

PIQUA — Not-for-profit organizations in Miami County are reminded that grant applications to the Miami County Foundation must be submitted by Feb. 29.

Applicants must provide services directly to the citizens of Miami County. All must be certified federally tax-exempt by the Internal Revenue Service and preferably be a 501(c)(3) organization.

Historically, grants have been awarded to social service organizations, schools, healthcare providers, libraries, youth and senior groups as well as the arts. Guidelines restrict organizations to one grant annually. An application form and other pertinent information is available online at www.miamicountyfoundation.org or by contacting the office at 773-9012. Successful applicants will receive notification of the spring distribution date.

The foundation was established in 1985 by Richard E. Hunt, founder of WPTW-AM/WCLR radio.

BNC offers P.E.E.P. program

TROY — Put on the snow gear and come join staff and volunteers for a tromp through the woods at Brukner Nature Center.

Participants will hop, slither, and fly, as they observe the natural world around us. Through hands on exploration, participants will put on the safety gear and learn what goes on in the Wildlife Rehabilitation Unit.

Sign-ups for Brukner Nature Center’s Pre-school Environmental Education Program (P.E.E.P.) are under way. The winter session runs the week of Feb. 23 through the week of April 1. This program offers a unique opportunity for children, ages 3-5 to get outdoors and learn through natural discovery.

Classes run for six weeks and are offered for one day a week. Classes take place on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday from 9:30-11:30 a.m. An additional afternoon class is offered on Friday from 12:30-2:30 p.m.

The fee is $45 for BNC members and $60 for non-members. All fees are due upon registration (cash or check). Class size is limited to 12 children.